Cervical Cancer ScreeningOctober 2011

What do you know about cervical cancer screening?

Where is the cervix?

What is a Pap test?• Can find abnormal changes on

the cervix.• Treating early changes can

prevent cancer of the cervix.• The Pap test is free.

What causes abnormal changes on the cervix?

• HPV (Human Papillomavirus)• HPV is a common sexually

transmitted infection (STI)• You can pass this virus without

knowing it to men or women

HPV• HPV can cause abnormal

changes on a woman’s cervix• Sometimes abnormal changes

can become cancerous.• A Pap test can find these

abnormal changes before they turn into cancer.

Pap test…

Do I need a Pap test?• All women who have ever been

sexually active (sexual intercourse and intimate touching), regardless of sexual orientation, should have regular Pap tests.

When should I have a Pap test?• Pap testing should

begin 3 years after first sexual activity

• Most women need a Pap test every two years.

What should I do before a Pap test?• Schedule your Pap test–after your period has stopped

completely.–Two weeks after treatment for

any cervical or vaginal infection.

• Do not use tampons, douches, creams and/or foams for 48 hours before your Pap test.

What should I do before a Pap test?• Try not to have sexual

intercourse for 24 hours before the test.

• If you need a repeat Pap test, you should wait at least 3 months in order to allow cells on the cervix to grow back.

What is the HPV vaccine?• The HPV vaccines protect against

certain types of HPV which cause cervical cancer.

• The vaccines do not treat existing HPV infections.

• If you receive the vaccine, you still need regular Pap tests.

Where can I go for a Pap test?• Ask your doctor or nurse• Contact your local health centre• Visit our website under “Where

can I go for a Pap test?–TellEveryWoman.ca

Remember…• Most cervical cancers can be

prevented if women have regular Pap tests with follow-up for abnormal changes.

Any questions?